We received as a gift from a neighbor, two bivalve shells that are made  in
the style of a Limoges box.  They are real shells (a Venus clam and a calico
scallop) surrounded by gold-colored metal and hinged.  They are more in the
style of a compact or change purse, with a snap-together fastening.
 
We've never seen anything like these before.  One has a sticker on the
bottom that says "Natura" and "A natural product of the Philippines."
 
Is anyone familiar with these boxes, and whether they are antiques,
collectibles, or what?  They are quite beautiful and rather obviously
hand-crafted.  Since we did our neighbor a very small favor, I would not
expect an expensive gift.
 
Sylvia S. Edwards
Huntsville, Alabama
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